Appropriate Use of the Wissahickon

The Advocacy Committee of the Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) has developed a draft policy position in regard to "Appropriate Use of the Wissahickon." To provide an overall context to the issues that will be addressed, the Committee adopted the following statement: 

The Wissahickon Valley distinguishes itself as a unique urban wilderness. As part of the Fairmount Park system, its setting offers access to scenic beauty and appreciation of being part of nature. The Valley attracts a multiplicity of park users, many from surrounding neighborhoods but also from the great metropolitan region. Out of respect                   Photo by JoAnne Bower

for one another's enjoyment and the park's ecological integrity, the Friends of the Wissahickon ask users to be mindful of this valuable resource and its preservation for future generations. To accomplish this, we have developed guidelines for appropriate uses of the Wissahickon. These apply to individual and small group activities as well as larger events that require permits from the Fairmount Park Commission. The guidelines are particularly relevant to the many trails that wend through the slopes of the valley and offer solitude and quietude. 

Individual and Small Group Use

As part of a large urban park, the Wisshickon Valley accommodates a wide variety of use and users such as hikers, bikers, runners, bird watchers, dog walkers, horseback riders, fishermen/women and wildlife (flora and fauna) appreciators. Rules and regulations that have been issued by the Fairmount Park Commission (see "Regulations for the Government of Parks under the Control of the Commissioners of Fairmount Park") clearly apply to users of the Wissahickon. Highlights of these regulations are already posted at key locations within the park.